Vertical Architecture
Describe the difference between buildings categorized as“bicycle chassis" and “hybrid SUV chassis."
While “bicycle chassis” buildings are planned based only on the amount of resources available at the site, the “hybrid SUV chassis” also use technology to power up. The latter are still very efficient and smart buildings.
Out of all possible alternatives, the double façade was chosen for its high impact on sustainability and cost-efficiency.
What design decision was made based on the concept of “hedonistic sustainability”? Instead of asking the user to make a sacrifice for the sake of sustainability, the design team considered the sustainable strategy as an opportunity to provide an amenity to the user. What was it?
The feature providing both sustainability and comfort is that the thermal regulation is up to the user. The ability to open windows when necessary and get a gulp of fresh air not only contributes to sustainability but also boosts human performance. This is realized through the effective use of natural ventilation (due to solar chimney).
4. What are the benefits of an efficient facade? What are the indirect effects of using less water?
The greatest benefit of the efficient façade is that it reduces the amount of energy consumed by the mechanical ventilation systems. In the summer, it does not let hot air enter the building and in winter, it keeps the warm air in. When the mechanical systems are more efficient, they consume less water which is an indirect effect.
5. What program decisions were made to mitigate the east and west sun on the tower floors?
Since the eastern and western sun is hardest to deal with, the double façade on these sides is made very thin. Also, there are window blinds in the cavity which provide superior sun shading and ventilation.
Works cited
Academy of Arts University. “Ben Tranel Of Gensler Presentation: Vertical Architecture.” 2016. Web. 3 Mar. 2016.
